This year, BGE is investing more than $650 million in the electric and natural gas systems serving customers with safe and reliable energy

BALTIMORE (Nov. 4, 2015) – As temperatures begin to drop, BGE has completed upgrades of its electric and natural gas systems and conducted a comprehensive review of its preparedness plans in advance of the winter season.

In 2015, BGE is investing approximately $175 million in the company’s natural gas system to provide safe and reliable service for customers. This work includes equipment inspections, repairs and replacements, and preventive maintenance on the company’s natural gas system. The company regularly installs new gas pipelines to meet customer demand, such as a recently installed 11-mile segment of pipeline in Carroll County between Westminster and Mt. Airy. Major gas system reinforcements were also installed in Anne Arundel County this year, and in Baltimore City, Harford and Baltimore counties prior to last winter.

BGE is also replacing existing gas mains with durable new pipes that will deliver gas safely and reliably to communities well into the future. So far this year, approximately 36 miles of aging gas mains have been removed from service as part of BGE’s ongoing upgrades to its gas system. This includes replacement of cast iron and unprotected steel mains at an accelerated rate under BGE’s STRIDE gas system modernization plan. In addition to modernizing equipment, the company has also secured natural gas contracts and filled its storage facilities to help ensure it has the gas supply necessary this heating season for those customers who purchase natural gas from BGE.

Electric system preparations have also been underway in preparation for winter weather. This seasonal readiness work is a part of the approximately $475 million BGE is investing in the company’s electric system in 2015. BGE is inspecting more than 7,000 circuit miles of overhead power lines and approximately 40,000 utility poles this year. The company also takes steps to minimize the threat to power lines of trees weakened by heavy snows and winter storms by spending approximately $30 million annually in trimming vegetation near overhead lines.

“Our customers depend on us to safely deliver the energy they need, particularly during the extreme weather months,” said Calvin G. Butler, Jr., chief executive officer of BGE. “Our employees and contractors work year round to ensure we are ready to meet customers’ needs in any conditions.”

As BGE prepares for winter, customers are reminded to prepare as well by following these tips: 

• Test your heating system and have it inspected by a qualified technician. Regular service will ensure the heating system operates safely and efficiently for the season ahead. 
• Schedule a free Quick Home Energy Check-up, where an energy efficiency professional will walk with you through your home to provide valuable tips for increased efficiency. 
• Save an average of 2 percent on your energy bill for every degree you lower your thermostat. 
• Lower the temperature on your water heater and conserve hot water when you can. 
• Seal holes and seams in your ductwork and gaps around doors, windows, and outlets. 
• Ensure you have 12 to 15 inches of attic insulation, or an R-38 level. 
• Open curtains and drapes during the day, to let the sun warm your home. Close them at night for insulation.

Customers should also explore the BGE Smart Energy Savers Program® at bgesmartenergy.com to identify new ways to save energy, money and the environment.

During colder weather, heating systems work longer to keep homes warm. Help in paying winter bills is available to income-qualified customers. Call (800) 352-1446 or visit http://www.dhr.state.md.us and click on “Services.”

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BGE, headquartered in Baltimore, is Maryland’s largest natural gas and electric utility, delivering power to more than 1.25 million electric customers and more than 650,000 natural gas customers in central Maryland. The company’s approximately 3,200 employees are committed to the safe and reliable delivery of natural gas and electricity, as well as enhanced energy management, conservation, environmental stewardship and community assistance. BGE is a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), the nation’s leading competitive energy provider, with 2014 revenues of approximately $27.4 billion. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.